The University of Sheffield cancels library fines

The University of Sheffield is one of the first in the UK to stop charging fines for overdue library books. This ground-breaking move will make the libraries more efficient for students.

Earlier this year, the University was awarded the accolade of the UK's top university for student experience. The libraries are enhancing the student experience further by changing their policy.

Books will now automatically be renewed until someone else requests them – then students are given two days to return the book. If students fail to bring their books back when requested they will not be fined, but they won’t be able to take out any more books in the meantime.

Alison Little, Assistant Director of Library Customer Relations, said: “This innovative move will help to make our award-winning the University Library even more welcoming and user friendly for all students.”

The library staff was recently crowned Outstanding Library Team at the Times Higher Education Leadership and Management Awards. This recognition shows the exceptional improvement in student satisfaction by putting the student experience at the heart of the service.